The personal statement may be the essay that strikes the most fear in students' hearts, but the work isn't over upon its completion. Most colleges now require one or more supplemental essays to help them get to know students better. Some of the most frequent supplemental essays include questions about intended major or future career goals; essays asking students to go into detail about a significant extracurricular activity; and responses asking students why they want to go to school "X." This last one helps colleges identify the students who are truly interested in their college (aka, likely to enroll), versus those who just checked another box off on the Common App. It also helps colleges (and you!) think about "fit"—so use this as an opportunity to discover how you might contribute to or flourish in a given college environs. Some things to keep in mind before tackling this last type of essay:

• It's not optional, even if it says it is! If you have any interest in a school, you will write every suggested/optional essay; if you don't, it's the first clue to admissions officers you aren't serious about the school.
• Don’t be vague. Language about expanding your worldview and meeting new people might sound great, but phrases like this can apply to any college experience, so be sure your essay isn't filled with them.
• Visit the school! This is the best way to gather information for those all-important “Why this College” essays; you can reference an interesting class you sat in on, name your tour guide, and speak with authority on the vibe and culture of the school.
• Read the website. And the departmental page for your intended major. And the course offerings. And the activities and clubs page. You get the idea—research the school, so you can be specific in the essay.

Compared to the lengthy and open-ended personal statement, the school-specific supplements can seem easier and more straightforward. While often the case, this doesn’t mean they don't warrant careful attention—some admissions officers report that they read the supplements even more carefully than the personal statements, making them an important component of your overall application.